Do What Is Good and Right in the Sight of the Lord

This meditation is based on a passage for March 8, 2011 in the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Deuteronomy 6:16-25

Reflection and Question: In this passage, a seemingly easy task is placed before the people: “Do what is right and good in the sight of God, so that it will go well with you.” However, it is not so easily accomplished as the people repeatedly fail to do what is right: to obey God’ decrees, the law and ordinances. Over and over in Scripture, depending on the obedience of Israel for a successful covenant between Israel and God was utterly disastrous. It is better to focus on God’s initiative in bringing the people out of Egypt in order to bring them into the Promised Land. How do you know when you are doing right or not?

Prayer: God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, we know that You brought the Hebrews out of Egypt in order to bring them into the land promised to their ancestors. With the ancients, we seek to fear You for our lasting good. Help us, we pray. Amen.